May 18, 2026
Story by Barton Communications
Photo by Joe Vinduska
Barton Community College celebrated the accomplishments of its nursing graduates during two separate Nursing Pinning Ceremonies May 15 in the Fine Arts Auditorium recognizing students from both the Practical Nursing and Associate Degree Nursing programs in Great Bend and Pratt.
The tradition of awarding nursing pins dates back to the 1860s, when Florence Nightingale honored outstanding nursing students with medals of excellence. Today, the pinning ceremony remains a meaningful symbol of dedication, compassion, and the transition into the nursing profession.
Barton’s nursing program is offered in a flexible 1+1 format, allowing students to complete the Practical Nursing Program in the first year and continue into the Associate Degree Registered Nursing program in the second year. Students may also choose to complete the Licensed Practical Nursing portion, enter the workforce, and return later to finish the Registered Nursing program. Nursing education is offered through Barton’s locations in both Great Bend and Pratt.
During the Practical Nursing pinning ceremony, 28 students from the Great Bend campus and six students from the Pratt location were recognized for earning their Licensed Practical Nursing credentials.
The associate degree Registered Nursing ceremony honored 17 graduates from Great Bend and 13 graduates from Pratt who completed the Registered Nursing program.
Graduates from both programs are entering a profession that continues to see strong demand nationwide. Nurses serve in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, emergency rooms, operating rooms, health departments, and industrial settings. Many Barton nursing students secure employment opportunities before graduation as the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow.
Through hands-on training and flexible pathways, Barton’s nursing programs continue to prepare students to meet critical healthcare needs across Kansas and beyond.
Barton Director of Nursing Education Renae Skelton said nursing is a profession that is built on compassion, skill, and trust.
“The pinning ceremony represents more than completing a program. It reflects the dedication, resilience, and heart these students have shown throughout their journey, and we are proud to see them begin making a difference in the lives of others," she said.